Jan NettigNovember 27, 2023 – Prague’s main railway station, a key gateway to the Czech capital, is set to undergo a transformative redesign, thanks to the innovative vision of Danish studio Henning Larsen Architects. Their winning proposal, “Šťastný Hlavák,” aims to revitalize the area by seamlessly integrating various elements of the city’s urban landscape.
A Holistic Approach to Urban Development
The core idea behind “Šťastný Hlavák” is to naturally connect Vrchlického sady (Vrchlický Gardens), the main station’s concourse, a new tram stop right in front of the station, and the historic Fantova building. This comprehensive approach emphasizes sustainability, micro-mobility, and revitalizing the Vrchlický Gardens. Henning Larsen Architects, part of the Danish group Ramboll, are global leaders in complex urban design projects.
Welcoming Visitors with Innovative Design
The vision of “Šťastný Hlavák” is to create a welcoming space for both city visitors and residents. A striking feature of the design is a wooden roof structure that connects the Vrchlický Gardens, the new concourse, and the planned tram stop. The proposal divides the gardens into three zones: a cultural area, a “station square,” and a zone for additional activities, such as markets. This division enhances the overall clarity of the area and improves conditions for pedestrians and cyclists, addressing sustainability in urban management.
Transforming an Unpopular Spot into a Vibrant Park
Petr Hlaváček, Deputy Mayor of Prague for Urban Development, praises the Danish studio’s design for addressing the challenges of the site effectively. The proposal transforms an unpopular spot into a lively park and a dignified gateway to the city. It acknowledges the increased foot traffic and adapts accordingly, adding new, attractive features like water elements and outdoor cafes. The design thoughtfully preserves iconic elements from the original author’s team, bringing them into the 21st century.
Integrating Public Transport Seamlessly
A new tram line, running from the National Museum to Wilsonova and Washingtonova streets, then via Opletalova to Bolzanova street, is part of the plan. This line will improve the station’s connection to public transport and relieve the currently overloaded route between Vodičkova and Jindřišská streets. Petr Witowski, Chairman of the Board of Prague Public Transit Company, highlights the importance of this integration for enhancing commuter comfort.
Revitalizing the Main Station Area
Zdeněk Hřib, Deputy Mayor of Prague for Transport, notes that the main station area will transform from an unattractive concourse into a vibrant public space. The winning visionary proposal brings the forgotten gem of Fantova building back to the city and its people. The revitalized park will feature a new tram line with a stop under the roof, emphasizing the ecological aspect of this key public transport hub.
A Fresh Face for Prague’s Gateway
Bohuslav Svoboda, Mayor of Prague, emphasizes the need for the station’s facade to rejuvenate, welcoming those who travel to Prague. Henning Larsen Architects’ design treats Vrchlický Gardens and the concourse as a whole, transferring artistic elements from the concourse to the park, such as the iconic pavement used in the new “station square.” The proposal also includes planting new greenery adapted to future climate changes.
Addressing Current Challenges with a Comprehensive Solution
The design addresses the current issues of the area as a whole, responding to the needs of various stakeholders – the City of Prague, the Railway Administration, and the Prague Public Transit Company. The planned calming of the city’s main thoroughfare will improve mobility for travelers and residents, thanks to the new tram stop in front of the concourse and connections to other city destinations.
Harmonizing Architecture, Urbanism, and Transport
The Evaluation Committee, led by Jaroslav Wertig, appreciated the harmony between architecture, urbanism, landscaping, and transport in the proposal. The design opens up and illuminates the concourse, preparing it for an expected increase in travelers in the coming decades.
Modernizing for the Future
Jiří Svoboda, General Director of the Railway Administration, commends the winning team for addressing the need to modernize the concourse and prepare it for the future. The design naturally connects the concourse with the park and the planned tram line, respecting the environment of the historic building.
Engaging the Public in the Design Process
Following the announcement of the winning proposal, the next steps include signing contracts and refining the study based on the requirements of the stakeholders and public opinion from the second round of city resident participation. The project documentation will be prepared for approval, with construction expected to begin in 2028 and estimated to cost around 2 billion Czech korunas.
A New Gateway to the City
Jacob Kurek, Global Market Director at Henning Larsen, expresses pride in presenting a new gateway to the city that warmly welcomes its residents and visitors. The holistic nature of the assignment challenged the studio to interconnect different areas into a cohesive whole. The ambition is for the new station to be not only a sustainable and functional mobility center but also a part of everyday life, a place for people to meet and spend time.
“Šťastný Hlavák” represents a visionary and comprehensive solution to the current challenges of the area, promising to transform Prague’s main railway station into a vibrant, welcoming, and sustainable urban space.
